A new step has just been taken in the integration of cryptocurrencies within the Apple ecosystem. Coinbase, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges, has just announced the integration of Apple Pay for all cryptocurrency purchases through its Coinbase Onramp service.
Simplified integration for developers
This new feature automatically integrates with Coinbase Onramp, the platform for developers who want to offer cryptocurrency transactions in their applications. The integration is transparent: developers already using Onramp do not have to do anything for their users to benefit from this new payment option.
The process is intended to be particularly fluid: users can now convert their traditional currency (such as the US dollar) into cryptocurrencies in a few seconds via Apple Pay. This ease of use could appeal to the more than 60 million Apple Pay users in the United States.
One step closer to mainstream adoption
This announcement echoes past statements from Tim Cook, who mentioned that Apple was “studying” the possibility of accepting cryptocurrencies via Apple Pay. If the Apple company has not yet made a major announcement concerning its own crypto initiatives, this integration by Coinbase marks an important step in the accessibility of cryptocurrencies for iOS users, especially since the use is transparent.
Coinbase highlights several advantages of this new feature: an optimized user experience, a simplified KYC (Know Your Customer) verification process for eligible purchases, and free transfers in USDC (a stable cryptocurrency indexed to the dollar and directly owned by at Coinbase). For merchants, this is the opportunity to receive payments in cryptocurrencies from customers paying in dollars via Apple Pay. It’s a great way to do without traditional services like PayPal while avoiding transaction fees. It is not yet known when the feature will be rolled out in Europe.
Download the free app Coinbase: buy bitcoin
